Archmere Academy’s Student Newspaper
Volume 91, Issue 1
November 2023
Archmere Places Emphasis on Disciplinary Rules Policies Spark Debate Among Students
Kathryn Pyne ‘25 ASST. NEWS & MANAGING EDITOR Although the Archmere disciplinary rules remain the same as previous years, Archmere administrators have been more heavily enforcing them this year. Acting together as Directors of Student Life and Culture, Mr. Nowaczyk and the newly positioned Mr. Johnson are collaborating to ensure students are following these rules. It is expected of students to tuck in their shirts, to not use their cellphones in school, and to store their computer in the Archmere provided case. It has always been mandatory for students to have their personal IDs, but this school year Archmere administrators have been mandating that students should wear their IDs on their person to ensure safety. If students are wearing their IDs, administrators know that students did not misplace their IDs, therefore confirming that random people do not have access to Archmere’s academic buildings. Maura Read ‘25 says, “Although the rules about IDs are sometimes difficult to follow, they keep us and our school safe.” However, some students are strongly opposed to being penalized for not wearing their IDs,
and do not find a purpose to it. Emily Mayo ‘25 says, “Giving us points for the tiniest things, like not wearing your ID, is frustrating and annoying.” Mr. Johnson believes that following stricter disciplinary policies in high school prepares students to better integrate with college expectations. Mr Johnson recalls when he played games on his laptop during class in college, and, consequently, he ended up with a C+ in the class. Mr. Johnson reflects on his own personal experience, saying, “It would have served me well to have consequences for being distracted on my device before I got to college.” He then says, “This is definitely part of the rationale behind the no cellphone policy at Archmere.” In regards to the dress code, Johnson argues that Archmere’s dress code effectively prepares students for workplace norms. “Most jobs require a dress code and, at that point, there are no warnings when not followed,” Johnson says. In previous years, one violation of the student handbook would result in a warning. However, the new procedure allows
Archmere administrators to give out disciplinary points for violations without a warning. Once students receive three disciplinary points, students are to meet Mr. Johnson and he will assign the student with a personalized reflection, instead of a typical, purposeless punishment. Johnson says, “The new structure allows for students to have good reflection on their violations, but not feel like they are getting bombarded with consequences.” Overall, the crackdown on students following disciplinary rules has caused some opposition within the student population, but Mr. Johnson assures that each rule serves a meaningful purpose that strengthens the community as a whole. Mr. Johnson stresses this, saying, “While we are being stricter in the assigning of points, we are being much more open and forgiving on the follow up of that.” There is no misunderstanding of the rules; however, the penalization of students with minor violations, in general, is considered excessive among the student population.
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Reflecting on the Life and Legacy of Mr. Newitt Maura Read ‘25 CO-SPORTS EDITOR After losing a beloved member of the Archmere community, many people have spoken about their relationship with Mr. Terry Newitt and how he affected their lives. Mr. Newitt, a teacher of many art classes at Archmere for many years, recently passed away and left a lot of life lessons with the people he impacted. Mrs. Silverman revealed in an interview her relationship with Mr. Newitt and shared a few words on his lasting memory and impact on her life. To start, Mr. Newitt was an art teacher at Archmere for 39 years. He not only taught classes but he also did many day-to-day acts that stood out to many faculty and students. He worked many extra hours and even opened the art studio to students on Saturdays. Many teachers claim that Mr. Newitt always fully immersed himself in every project and was always willing and eager to bring his artistic genius to the standard academic side of the school. According to Madame Thiel’s tribute to Mr. Newitt, “Terry was a believer in the balance of the educational ecosystem: that an institution most thrives when it allows room for every individual to be their quirky, authentic selves, all while advancing the shared mission and values.” Mrs. Silverman, the head of Archmere’s Art Department, spoke strongly of her relationship with Mr. Newitt and his effect on her life. Their story started
when she first attended Archmere for high school. She claims she immediately felt the impact of his extraordinary teaching style and commitment to the growth of his students. She recounts on her first class with him as “electrifying” and a “sense of belonging.” He was able to see her talent early on, and he ultimately influenced her to pursue her art abilities to the fullest and to unleash her true talent. She remembers a time when Mr. Newitt drove all the way to New York City to make sure one of her award winning pieces was honored to its fullest potential. He also helped her put together her portfolio, apply to one of the top art schools in the country, and eventually guided her into the art education program at Archmere. She claims that his method of teaching and understanding that the “heart and hand and soul are wedded together in the creative process” lasted with her and still guides her teaching today. He believed in “looking for magic of every day,” which, for him, often ended up being in art. His teaching of the non-mechanical sense of art impacted many people’s lives as his methodology followed him outside the classroom and into every project he took on. His effort and spirit lasted with anyone who interacted with him, and his memory will forever be remembered as a large part of the Archmere community.
Above: Mr. Newitt with one of his art classes. Below: Mr. Newitt assisting a student with his art project. (Photos: Archmere Academy Instagram)
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THE GREEN ARCH
is a quarterly student-run publication at Archmere Academy. Our website is at https://archmeregreenarch.org Mission Statement The Green Arch seeks to consistently provide accurate information and impactful content to the Archmere Community. Our articles aim to Josie Calder ‘25 educate the student body on local, CO-SPORTS EDITOR national and global issues via proThis year, Archmere welcomes five fessional, engaging print and digital new teachers to its Language, Math, platforms. We strive to create a English, and Art departments. Mrs. voice for the Archmere community Pisani, who helps train new teachers at members, allowing them to generate the beginning of the year, stated, “The original content in a inclusive envinew faculty members are a fantastic ronment. As the school newspaper, addition to the Archmere community. we commit ourselves to upholding It is especially nice to welcome back Archmere’s pillars of zeal, wisdom, alumna, Taylor Tucker. We have a kind respect, reverence, and community. and caring group of individuals, and
News
November 2023
Archmere Welcomes Five Teachers for 23-24 Year
Submissions Letters to the editors are encouraged. Readers may submit a letter via email to greenarch@archmereacademy. com. Editors reserve the right to contact writers or edit submissions. Comments—both in print and on our digital platform—are subject to review for appropriateness. Not all comments or letters will be published. Follow us on Social Media! The Green Arch is on Instagram (@ archmeregreenarch), Twitter (@ AukGreenArch), and Facebook (facebook.com/aukgreenarch). Join our Staff! New contributors are always welcome! Please contact any staff member listed below for more info, or email greenarch@archmereacademy.com.
Editors-in-Chief Grace Koch ‘24 Anna Benner ‘24 Managing Editor Elizabeth Maher ‘24 Web Editor Matt Malloy ‘24 News Editor Elizabeth Maher ‘24 Features Editor Isabella Lehr ‘24 Science & Tech Editor Danielle Keenan ‘26 Reviews Editor Ruby Merenda ‘24 Sports Editors Josie Calder ‘25 Maura Read ‘25 Copy Editor Lilian Domenico ‘25 Asst. News and Managing Editor Kathryn Pyne ‘25 Social Media Manager Claire McGonigle ‘25 Faculty Advisor Mrs. Patricia Maher
I’m really enjoying working with each of them.” Mrs. Carmer Trainer is joining the World Languages department this year as a Spanish teacher. In previous years, she was a substitute teacher for the Spanish department, but now she is teaching full time for Spanish classes in levels one and two. She received her bachelor’s degree from the Universidad Iberoamericana in Mexico City, and she then went on to receive her masters degree in education from the University of Hartford. Mrs. Fowler is joining the Math department as a full time teacher this year. Last year, Mrs Fowler was a substitute teacher for Mr. Johnson and for Mrs. Thomas in the religion department. When a full time position
as a math teacher opened up this year, Madame Thiel offered it to Mrs. Fowler. When asked about why she wanted to become a permanent teacher at Archmere, Mrs. Fowler said she loved the feeling of community as well as the students and the other faculty members. The English department is welcoming an alumna to its staff this year, Ms. Taylor Tucker. Ms. Tucker graduated from Archmere in 2016, and after her time at Archmere she received a degree in Education and Black Studies from Swarthmore College, then continuing on to receive her masters in education degree from the University of Pennsylvania. She is now returning to her alma mater to teach English to 9th and 10th grade students. This year the art department is undergoing a major transformation after teachers Ms. Van Wylen and Mrs. Hoffman left after the previous school year. The two new teachers taking their place are Ms. Rachel Briggs and Ms. Hollie Lyko. When asked about the two new teachers, Mrs. Silverman, the head of the art department, said, “Mrs. Lyko and Ms. Briggs bring outstanding skill sets and expertise across a broad range of art making disciplines to enrich the
Ms. Briggs Teaches Inaugural Adobe Class
Ruby Merenda ‘24 REVIEWS EDITOR
A new art class has recently taken the Archmere Manor by storm: Adobe Creative Suite (or in short, Adobe). Finding a place in the Manor computer lab, the class is designed to introduce students to the world of digital art and provide them with a portfolio of digital work. As stated by Adobe’s teacher, Ms. Briggs, “It’s the perfect opportunity for everyone from beginners to experienced tech students to expand their digital visual skills.” Specifically, students will be expanding these skills by using apps such as Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Premiere, and After Effects to create digital art. In addition to a new class, Archmere has also welcomed a new teacher to lead it, Ms. Briggs. Having minored in Video and Film, she has a lot of experi-
ence in the digital realm and is excited to be teaching this new art class. She is most excited to teach her students how to use video and motion design-based software, declaring, “To actually create your own moving images with intention and creativity gives you a new perspective and appreciation for them.” As of now, Adobe’s students have completed four projects: a personal collage, an InDesign page based on a popular graphic designer, a photo series, and a name logo design. Currently, the class is collaborating with the Archmere Marketing department to design this year’s Christmas card with many more projects to come.
Ms. Tucker pictured with Mr. Klinge at her own Archmere graduation. (Photo: Archmere Academy) Art & Design program. In addition to a broad range of teaching experiences, both of our amazing new art educators also have fascinating backgrounds as professional artists! For example, in addition to her prior teaching experience, Ms. Briggs previously worked for Anthropologie and Terrain designing creative merchandising installations, and Mrs. Lyko has participated in a variety
of group shows and exhibitions and her artwork is part of the permanent public collection of the Fuller Craft Museum, Brockton, MA.” Archmere is lucky enough to welcome five new talented faculty members to its staff. These new additions to our community this year are all very exciting and promising.
New Tag Day Procedure Giancarlo Flaherty ‘26 STAFF REPORTER Tag Day at Archmere is a day that students look forward to each Friday. Tag Day is held every week to support a different cause. This year, new guidelines have been implemented to improve issues regarding the sale of tags. In years before, throughout the week, sales for Friday’s Tag Day have taken place during lunch and been sold by a teacher. The sales for the $2 tags would benefit a different cause each week. A problem though was the long lines. These lines took away from the students’ lunch time. However, this school year the sale of tags has been changed. Instead of buying a $2 tag each week, a $50 cover fund could be paid at the beginning of the year. If students want to support a specific fund, tags can still be purchased individually. These changes are being met with
a positive response from the student body. Danny Keenan ‘26 enthusiastically stated “It makes it more easy and convenient.” Many students find it more convenient that the $2 is not needed each week anymore. Emily Juarez ‘26 exclaimed “I have one less thing to worry about, like I don’t have to remember $2 anymore.” Overall, students are appreciative of the new changes made to tag day. Archmere will have 30 tag days this year for the 2023-2024 school year and support a multitude of organizations and groups. Causes such as the Mark Dombroski Foundation, Maui Strong Foundation, and the Aevidum Mental Health Organization are some causes that Archmere has supported this year. Overall, Archmere’s new tag day procedure benefits the student’s time management, while still supporting these important causes.
SCOTUS Rules Against Affirmative Action
Elizabeth Maher ‘24 NEWS & MANAGING EDITOR
On June 29, 2023, the United States Supreme Court ruled against the practice of affirmative action, effectively ending race-conscious admissions processes in colleges and universities –both public and private– across the country. The decision comes as a success for Students For Fair Admissions, the nonprofit legal advocacy group that initiated the case by suing Harvard and the University of North Carolina. Among other claims, Students For Fair Admission argued that these schools discriminated against rejected Asian-American students with higher standardized test scores and grades than accepted students of other races. The final decision was divided along partisan lines, as the three more liberal Supreme Court justices voted in favor of affirmative action while the six-justice conservative majority voted to gut the process. Justice Clarence Thomas, who was a part of the conservative majority, spoke of the now rescinded
affirmative action policies, saying, “Those policies fly in the face of our colorblind Constitution.” Meanwhile, Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson, part of the liberal minority, expressed her dissent to the Court’s decision, saying, “But deeming race irrelevant in law does not make it so in life.” Mrs. Reigner, one of Archmere’s college counseling officers, explained how this ruling has affected how colleges have traditionally thought about diversifying their student body. “This decision asked [colleges and universities] to be thoughtful in different ways about diversity and rely on different means as the SCOTUS decision did leave the door open for analysis of race if the student were to talk about in an essay. They just can’t use the reported race,” she says. “The solution that many schools have come with in how they can legally still take into consideration racial diversity is by creating questions that would provide an opportunity for some students to share information about
their racial background,” Mrs. Reigner says. Though some schools, like Tufts University, have utilized this type of supplement for years, many schools, like the University of Virginia, decided to update supplements for the 2023-24 year in response to this ruling. Some Archmere students have experienced this change first hand as they apply to colleges. “It affected a lot of the supplemental essay questions for most, if not all of the colleges that I applied to,” said Grace Koch ‘24. The immediate effects of the SCOTUS decision on applications and colleges’ diversity are not entirely clear. Because admission results for this year are not finalized, no accurate conclusions can be drawn. Mrs. Reigner says, “I think that there are many in the college counseling and admission world that are concerned that this could negatively impact racial diversity on campuses.” However, she did point out that a few higher education institutions, like the UCs and the University of Michigan, have shown what a successful path
forward without affirmative action can look like. She says, “I think it is noteworthy that something as big and diverse as the University of California system has been reading without race for many years.” Students have mixed reactions to this decision. Some feel that this decision may put them at a disadvantage, with one anonymous student remarking that it could change their chances of being accepted to certain schools. Others view it as making the admissions process fairer, with another anonymous student saying, “I think it helps even the playing field.” No matter one’s opinion on the subject, the SCOTUS decision on affirmative action has prompted numerous discussions on the topic, as well as has shone a spotlight on the entire admissions process to colleges and universities in the United States. As schools finalize their admitted classes later this year, the effects of the ruling will certainly become more evident.
THE GREEN ARCH
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Around Archmere
November 2023
Archmere Excited for UpOpinion: Wreaking Havoc in coming Theater Renovations the Archmere Lot Danielle Keenan ‘26 SCIENCE & TECH EDITOR An exciting change for the 2024-2025 Archmere school year is the upcoming Theater and Performance Art Center changes, which are set to begin after graduation. Students start their journey at Archmere from orientation and end it at graduation in the theater. The theater is seen as a vital part of Archmere because it is where the student body comes together and participates in Masses. The theater itself was constructed in the 1980s as a part of an expansion of Saint Norbert’s Hall. The theater has barely been touched since, so it was time for renovations for its almost 40th year being a part of Archmere’s campus. The upcoming renovations include aesthetic changes and are expected to finish January 2025. The construction will focus on the choir room, band room and theater. The mural in the band hallway by Terry Newitt will stay and be untouched by the construction. The seating arrangement in the theater will be changed to have a center aisle with 2 sections of new seats compared to the three the theater has now. This is to keep the total number of 750 seats with a smaller balcony. There are some logistics that will be addressed by these renovations including acoustics and orchestra pit. The biggest
change will be that the wall facing the road will be replaced with glass to let natural light into the lobby and make it more welcoming. These changes should not affect the next musical, but they may change the practice locations and delay the production. However, the fall play in 2024 will change locations. Assemblies and Masses will be affected the most from this renovation. Mr. Manelski mentioned how there is not yet a final plan, but Masses will probably be held in the SLC and there will be fewer assemblies during the year. There are still things to be determined like where the band and choir practice will be during the renovations of the band hallway. Additionally, it remains indefinite where the location of orientation will be for incoming freshmen. Mr. Manelski, Mr. Ifkovits, and current theater students are excited about this project and the future it holds for the performance department. Bridget McNamara ‘25 is sad that the changes may affect her senior show but is excited that others will have their first shows in the new theater. When asked about what he will miss about the current theater, Mr. Ifkovits showed his excitement by saying, “Absolutely nothing!” The performance department looks forward to these renovations and is also excited to perform the final musical in the current theater, “Matilda,” in Feburary.
Ella Harshyne ‘24 and Ava Soscia ‘24 STAFF REPORTERS Novice sixteen and seventeen year old drivers fill the Archmere parking lot every morning and flood out every afternoon. Who wouldn’t want to park next to their friends 30 minutes before school? And who wouldn’t want to leave as soon as the bell rings? What is portrayed as an exhilarating new privilege to newly licensed drivers quickly turns into a dramatic safety hazard. Novice drivers tend to drive too fast or recklessly in the student parking lot. An Archmere student, who wants to remain anonymous, explains how they felt when their car got hit in the parking lot. The traumatized student exclaims, “All I heard was a crunch and my stomach dropped. I didn’t even know what happened yet, then I looked in my mirror and saw the car sunk into my bumper.” This student was parking and a novice driver still managed to hit the bumper of their car. This isn’t the first accident in the Archmere parking lot, and it sure isn’t the last. What’s a parking lot without bad parking? Student led instagram account named “auksflynotpark” reflects students’ notorious parking skills. Whether you’re out of
the lines, diagonal, on the curb or crashed into another person’s vehicle; chances are you’re on that account! Not only are accidents, speeding and bad parking a problem in the Auks’ parking lot, but parking gets tricky as well. A rule that goes without saying: Seniors park in the front of the lot, closest to the buildings, and juniors park towards the back near the fields. Sometimes, when juniors go against this rule, the seniors become enraged. One senior, wishing to be kept anonymous, was fuming after she came to school and saw a junior parked in her regular spot. The senior exclaimed, “Who does this junior think they are? Stealing my spot? Their place is in the back.” Still boiling with emotions, the senior caused a ruckus, calling over the junior and telling them to stop parking there. This angry senior is not the only one experiencing rage over ignorant juniors. Another senior, also wishing to be kept anonymous, placed a sticky note on the car of a junior who parked in the senior section. The sticky note notified the junior of their disgraceful rulebreak, and hopefully, the Auk received the message. Luckily, nothing has gotten violent. This leads to the question students and faculty have debated over years. “Should students have assigned parking?” This debate may continue onwards for years.
Looking Ahead: DEI Initiatives for the 23-24 Year Lilian Domenico ‘25 COPY EDITOR Archmere’s Diversity, Equity, Inclusion Club works to promote representation for everyone, eliminate bias, and create unification within Archmere. DEI strives to create a safe space to initiate challenging conversations and collaborates with alumni and faculty to educate the community with boldness, energy, and sensitivity. DEI has exciting plans for the 20232024 school year. Friday, October 13, DEI kicked off this school year’s events with Multicultural Night. The event was a massive celebration of cultural diversity. Students and families brought foods,
music, traditions, and activities from their cultures and shared them with the Archmere community. Among the countries represented at Multicultural Night were Cameroon, France, Nigeria, India, Jamaica, Poland, and China. Some of the activities featured were calligraphy, Chinese yo-yo, Ludo, African Head wrapping, and many more. Multicultural Night united the Archmere community by providing an opportunity to learn about other cultures, eat incredible food, and participate in fun activities as a community. In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, DEI has recently partnered with the Pulsera Project. The Pulsera Project is an organization that discovers artisans from Central Amer-
ica who have the talent to create beautiful bracelets, buys them, and partners with various schools that sell them. The money raised is put toward education, healthcare, and housing for communities in Central America. Through this program, DEI has been recognizing the talents of hundreds of Central American artisans and raising money for Central American artisans and communities. DEI plans to honor different cultural celebrations monthly through fundraisers and activities. Not only will this bring awareness to the specific culture, but it will also provide immersive ways to unite the Archmere community. Currently, the club is focused on honoring Hispanic Heritage Month through the Pulsera
Project and other upcoming activities. For the month of November, Indigenous Heritage Month, DEI anticipates possibly visiting a reservation in Milford DE to talk with the chiefs and leaders there about their cultures. In addition to monthly celebrations, DEI plans to honor other cultural celebrations with other activities and ways to get involved. For example, for the Mid-Autumn Festival, the club organized lantern decorating in the SLC. DEI looks to collaborate with other clubs such as GSA this year as well. The club is excited to continue to organize fun activities that get more people immersed in the beautiful celebrations of diverse cultures. All are welcome to participate!
Homecoming 2023 Photo Gallery Kaitie Hickey ‘26 and Lucy Weinig ‘26 STAFF REPORTERS On Saturday, September 30th, Archmere held its second dance of the year in the SLC. Despite our air conditioning being down, good spirits and dance moves were definitely not! Overall, it was quite the night for our students to celebrate. After the “sweaty success” we all had at MORP, the anticipation of Homecoming was heightened by the day. Student Council member Julia Reese ‘26 says, “It was a very fun experience I got to share with my friends and will always remember!” The homecoming dance was just the beginning of the fun for the Auks with Spirit Week down the line, the pep rally, and the Homecoming games. The Auks will be returning again to the dance floor in the Spring for our first Soph-Frosh in years, as well as Junior and Senior proms.
Above: Our cross country team sure cleaned up nice! (Photo: Sam Wahl) Below: “This is the best!” (Photo: Colleen Piacetine) These field hockey players are ready to dance the night away at Homecoming! Pictured: Nicole Tsaganos ‘26, Bella Fazio ‘27, Breanne Hughes ‘27, Lela Slijepcevic ‘27, and Colleen Murphy ‘26 (Photo: Colleen Murphy)
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Danielle Keenan ’26 SCIENCE & TECH EDITOR
THE GREEN ARCH
Science & Tech
November 2023
Archmere Adapting to Changing World of AI
Though AI seems to be a recent topic it has only become more readily available. “AI ‘’ stands for artificial intelligence and is the idea of making machines that can think or “replicate” human intelligence. This was famously explored in the 1950s by the “father of computer science” Alan Turing. He wanted to explore the idea that machines can think so than created the famous Turing Test. This tested if a human can decipher between a machine or human response. Now our understanding of what makes AI is not that of machines thinking like humans, but thinking rationally. AI gets the information that enables it to output responses from data sets given to it by humans. A term often used with AI is machine learning which is when an AI can learn information that was not programmed. The AI learns from the interactions between humans and builds on itself. This form of AI can be found in many software already. Some known examples are AI being used in Grammarly to correct grammar mistakes and the Snapchat chatbot to have conversations with users. Some lesser-known examples are being used to recommend shows on Netflix, algorithms on social media, and Google Translate. AI can be more than a buzzword and apply to very real-world applications. For example, now even AI is being tested to help companies find candidates for jobs and to be used in hospitals to diagnose patients. These developments are extraordinary, but at the same time scary since AI is still developing and it should not be depended on. Not all AI programs are created equal and AI is as good as
data set used is many resources from the internet, and since the internet is not known for its credibility the information may not all be accurate. Schools are afraid of AI because of how easily it can be used by students to do work for them, especially important written work like papers. This fear is not unfounded since many students in colleges have been caught using AI to make essays. This is because of the large papers students have to complete and the pressure the students may feel to hand something in. The most used software to do this is ChatGPT because of its acclaim and ease of use. The problem that many schools have with students using AI to write papers is that the students do not learn anything from having a machine write for them. To combat this issue Archmere is taking several actions to avoid AI from being misused in the classroom. Using AI is against the plagiarism policy at Archmere and will make any student found using AI deal with punishments for going against the Academic Honesty Policy. Students’ work may be caught by TurnItIn for using AI but TurnItIn is not perfect and can give false positives. Specifically for AP classes, the College Board requests teachers to talk about AI in the classroom and take extra measures. AI is still a developing technology and Archmere is prepared to make changes when needed. While having a conversation with Ms. Linton, the head of the English department, she describes ChatGPT as the “SparkNotes for life.” AI made all the information on the Internet even more
AI Art Harming Artists
accessible and in return made life easier. Ms. Linton does not want to see AI not being used at all but used as a tool like the internet. Some examples of AI being used in the classroom include being able to give examples of essays and using grammar properly, coming up with tests and quizzes giving teachers more time to teach and help students, helping correct already written papers, and being a starting point to find information. These are ways AI can be used to save time that is better spent or AI doing the “busy work.” But Ms. Linton also recognizes that AI is not dependable and does have its flaws. For example, the ChatGPT algorithm may funnel incorrect information or leave out information that might be useful. Making students therefore inaccurate with their work. Schools need to adapt to the changing landscape of AI since it is becoming a part of the world and to be successful you will need to know how to deal with it. AI has famously been feared to be able to “steal” people’s jobs and that is a legitimate worry but with AI some other jobs will be offered. Schools can prepare students for this by making students familiar with it which gives students an upper hand when it comes to future jobs. Ms. Linton made a good comparison of the current growth of AI to that of when the internet was first introduced. The internet was something everyone had to adapt to and could be a very useful resource but libraries still had the books that you could not find anywhere else.
A Collective Craving for Chaos? Isabelle Ferris ’24 STAFF REPORTER
Danielle Keenan ’26 SCIENCE & TECH EDITOR AI is a current ever-changing landscape and a recent AI development is that of creating art. AI can create art using neural networks to analyze large collections of art or a data set of art. The neural network finds patterns with the data set to then apply to an image. To have good-looking images from AI you need to be specific when it comes to the prompt you give the AI. This form of AI is called generative AI since it gives the ability to generate pictures. With the term AI art, you might find distaste or disregard because it has fostered hostility from many for screwing over artists. First, AI creates artworks using data sets of other artworks most times without permission or compensation. Some people even try to copyright the AI art created by other art and only the input of the individual is the prompt used. Many programs use many different datasets, some using art from free domain, some of art that is stolen. So when judging AI art from a good source you would have to do your research into the data set used. Second, AI fosters a demeaning attitude towards artists. The popularity of AI art caused many to be skeptical if art is made by AI or not. Many people without a full understanding of digital art comment on actual artists’ work and accuse them of using AI. This many times is not true and the only reason behind this accusation is that the art looks “too good.” The hostility towards AI then goes full circle to attack artists. Another example of AI demeaning artists’ work is those who use generative AI calling themselves artists. Since the only input from humans when creating an AI artwork is a prompt many believe that doesn’t count you as an artist. It may also be seen even further to demean artists because it discredits all the other extra work artists have to do to create art compared to the “AI artists.” Third, AI art harms artists because it may replace art made by humans. Recently people have analyzed promotional content published by Disney and other media companies to have found that it might have used AI. You can differentiate AI art because of its inability to grasp small details. AI art can result in a person with two heads, a car that is floating, or words that
the data given to it. AI can give you biased results if the data given to it is biased. The information given by the AI can also be biased by using an algorithm or funneling information. For example, AI uses algorithms that funnel information that may not be correct. An example is you see a trend all over your page and you show your friend but they never heard of it. The trend falls into a funnel where you only see it because the algorithm thinks you want to see it. But since social media is seen as this vast neverending amount of content videos or trends may seem bigger than they are. This can cause the spread of misinformation and the deafening of important issues. Also, AI is not human, meaning it lacks the ethics and emotion to handle certain situations giving results or solutions that humans might not find appropriate. The most popular form of AI that has recently been under fire by schools is that of ChatGPT. When it was released on November 30, 2023, it changed the landscape of AI and brought it to the forefront of the world. A few reasons this was the case was because it can be used by anyone with ease and the ability to have buildable conversations. Chat GPT was created by Open AI. ChatGPT can be asked any question (with some censorship limits) and can give you a response with confidence. But that’s part of the problem since some of its information may be inaccurate but the AI will act like it’s true. Information may be inaccurate because Open AI has to update the ChatGPT data set every few months and it may not display correct current information. Also, the
are not of any language. Though you still need the creativity of humans to create art, companies will try to take the cheaper route which now may be AI which can result in the loss of jobs of many artists. Fourth, AI is used in making most NFTs. Non-fungible tokens also known as “NFTs” simply put are digital pictures embedded with code similar to cryptocurrency making them one unique collectible. To make the most of the popular NFTs, companies use AI to create unique images on a large scale. NFTs when first introduced were seen as a threat to artists and buy from AI algorithms instead of artists. Even for these reasons, AI art should not be feared as much of a “job killer” since it has not reached its full potential to create realistic images. Many times when AI is asked to create detailed images they might not look entirely correct since it’s a computer trying to replicate real life. This is especially true when AI creates humans. Humans in AI pictures may have too many eyes or arms that might bend unnaturally due to the complex nature of human anatomy. AI can’t make logos as well since it’s difficult to produce text in image format with AI. The use of AI art should not be disregarded altogether but be used as a tool. An example of this is the “generative fill” feature being introduced into Photoshop. This feature can add elements to existing images or create new original images. AI art because of the ease of access can help those who do not have art skills to get their vision across or be used as a starting point for artists to better get their vision across. To test AI’s ability to capture art I compared an Archmere Students art with AI. I prompted Photoshop AI with a piece of artwork made by Maya Grande ‘25. This is a good example of why generative AI should not be intended as an art replacement. The AI missed some vital details like the smiley face on the waffle and the sketchy background. The AI also made the syrup drip against gravity. AI interprets art differently than humans do so that is why it would never be able to fully replace art made by humans.
From Halloween horror movie marathons to escaped convicts, the fall of 2023 has performed honorably in satisfying our desire for suspense. What causes this thrill-seeking fascination with violence? As the red lights and gory images of a horror movie flash around a darkened theater, what fills viewers’ eyes with the crazed wish for the villain to succeed? It should be a simple question of psychology that deserves a simple answer. Perhaps humanity just collectively desires chaos. But that doesn’t quite explain the backstory to our thirst for disorder and the disruption of the power structure of routine. Take Danelo Cavalcante’s escape from the Chester County Jail at the end of August, for example. Maybe most wouldn’t admit it, but there was a certain thrill from knowing that a convict had escaped from the police and was avoiding capture. An individual had proven capable of disrupting the regular order of life, at least for 13 days. Even after his past horrific deeds became common knowledge, the main effect on observers of the case was a deeper investment into the manhunt. Archmere psychology teacher Mr.
Painting by current student Maya Grande ‘25
Jezyk reflected that “There’s a fascination with true crime because of curiosity about what someone might be thinking when they do these things . . . you know cognitively that you’re in a safe spot, so there’s a sense of safety while still being scared.” So are we just after a rush of dopamine or adrenaline? Can our sometimes sick fascinations simply boil down to a chemical reaction? Perhaps, but it’s worth thinking about the toll that monotony has on a person’s imagination. Maybe routine has been romanticized to such an extent that people are bored, so they crave disruption. In the span of the past decade, yearly horror films produced have more than doubled from 450 in 2012 to almost 900 in 2020. It’s possible that people have more ability to indulge in their fascination with criminal behavior, whether in film or reality, because we as a society have been desensitized to such concepts in recent years.
A replica created by Photoshop’s Genrative Fill AI
THE GREEN ARCH
PAGER 5
November 2023
Reviews
Archmere Academy Goes All Out for Spirit Week Claudia Koch ‘26 STAFF REPORTER
Getting ready for the sporting events this weekend, the school came together for a spirit week to create an environment filled with school spirit and pride. Throughout the week, people dressed up as the various themes, showing their school spirit. On Monday the theme was white lies where people wrote a lie about themselves on a white shirt.
Tropical Tuesday was filled with excitement as students wore their favorite tropical gear, including Hawaiian shirts, fanny packs, and a student even had a fishing rod! Wednesday’s senior citizen versus baby day got the student body excited as juniors and seniors dressed as elderly people while freshmen and sophomores dressed
as babies. A variety of things were worn, such as wigs and sweaters, and pajama pants and bibs! Spirit week came to a rest on Thursday due to a mass, so students wore their regular uniforms on Thursday. However, Friday is where things get heated as the student body is divided into teams of White and Green. Letters A-K in the alphabet are assigned
to the green team, and L-Z are assigned to the white team. Competition stirs in the students throughout the day, especially at the pep rally where students participate in games and activities to win points for their respective teams. This excitement will pour into the weekend for the multiple homecoming sporting events. Go Auks!
Pictured: Left: Mr. Johnson, middle: Gabby Dove 24’right: Riley Burke 26’ (Photo: Gabby Dove )
Paul Corbett 27’ goes all out for tropical Tuesday. (Photo: Caludia Koch)
Pictured: Left: Lucy Oliver 24’ and right: Bella Hughes 24’ had a lot of fun dressing up as elderly people. (Photo: Grace Koch)
Pictured: senior students in their green and white attire. (Photo: Archmere Academy)
“She’s everything. He’s just Ken.” Elizabeth Maher ‘24 NEWS & MANAGING EDITOR
Directed by Greta Gerwig (“Lady Bird”, “Little Women”), “Barbie” premiered in the United States on July 12, 2023, earning $162.0 million domestically for opening weekend alone, according to CNN. Highlighted by Margo Robbie and Ryan Gosling, Barbie boasts a star-studded supporting cast including America Ferrera, Kate McKinnon, Will Ferrel, and Simu Liu. The movie also includes an acclaimed soundtrack with hits like “What Was I Made For?” by Billie Eilish and “Barbie World” by Nicki Minaj and Ice Spice, as well as Gosling’s viral “I’m Just Ken.” The film’s onset introduces viewers to the seemingly perfect –and very pink– world of Barbie Land. Stereotypical Barbie (Robbie) and her fellow Barbies live flawless lives and run the show, while Stereotypical Ken (Gosling) and the other Kens spend 90% of their time trying to win the Barbies over and the remaining 10% fighting amongst themselves over the Barbies. But Barbie’s
seemingly flawless world is suddenly turned upside down, and she and Ken must travel to the human world to set things right. In the real world, not only do Barbie and Ken encounter Gloria (Ferrera), Gloria’s daughter, Sasha (Ariana Greenblatt), and Mattel’s CEO (Ferrell), but set off a chain of events that threatens Barbie Land as they know it. External and internal conflicts ensue as Barbie suffers an identity crisis that leads her to question the world and her role in it. In this star-studded cast, Margot Robbie, Ryan Gosling, and America Ferrera shine brightest. Margot and Ferrera expertly handle complex emotional monologues and transformations, as Gosling aces the comedic aspect of the film, elevating every scene he’s in. Set and costume design are also exemplary, as was Barbie’s marketing. Barbie succeeds in transforming a movie about a stereotypical toy into an exploration of feminism, the patriarchy, and our own identities. As Barbie embarks upon a voyage of self-discovery, viewers journey with her. The film’s broader conflict
connects with audiences as well, especially women, as it explores female friendships, the patriarchy, and sexism; many viewers have found a connection with Ferrara’s emotional monologue towards the end of the film about being a woman in today’s society. Some viewers have raised questions about Mattel’s commercial and material intentions regarding the film, as Barbie-related sales went through the roof after the film’s
release, according to CNN. Additionally, the company has announced an upcoming slate of other brand films including Hot Wheels and Polly Pocket. However, Mattel’s commercial aims should be separated from Barbie’s successes. Already possessing stellar performances and production, Barbie shines brightest in its exploration of women’s experiences and transformations in our modern world.
Archmere’s Cheer Team attending the Barbie movie over the summer. (Photo: Michelle Zhang ‘24)
THE GREEN ARCH
PAGE 6
November 2023
Sports World Series Predictions Ruby Merenda ‘24 REVIEWS EDITOR The MLB playoffs have arrived after six long months and 162 regular-season games. At the beginning of the season, no one would have guessed which teams would make it into October. For example, neither the New York Yankees, Boston Red Sox, nor the St. Louis Cardinals made the playoffs. It is the first time in many years that none of these teams made it past the regular season. Additionally, there were some surprising regular season outcomes. The Baltimore Orioles had a 10.4% chance of making the playoffs this year. In the end, they were division winners of the American League East. Not to mention, the Rangers looked like they would take the American League West, but at the very end, the Houston Astros swept in and took the title. Going into the postseason, the three teams with the best records include the Atlanta Braves (104-58), the Orioles (101-61), and the Los Angeles Dodgers (100-62). However, many fans wondered if their high win percentages would continue in the playoffs. Half of the teams that made it to the postseason won their divisions while the other half clinched the wild card. The six division winners include the Baltimore Orioles of the American League East, the Minnesota Twins (87-75) of the American League Central, the Houston Astros (90-72) of the American League West, the Atlanta Braves of the National League East, the Milwaukee Brewers (92-70) of
the National League Central, and the Los Angeles Dodgers of the National League West. Although these teams can bypass the wild card round, we can’t count the rest of the teams out. Wild Card winners include the Tampa Bay Rays (99-63) of the American League East, the Toronto Blue Jays (89-73) of the American League East, the Texas Rangers (90-72) of the American League West, the Philadelphia Phillies (90-72) of the National League East, the Miami Marlins (84-78) of the National League East, and the Arizona Diamondbacks (84-78) of the National League West. The Wild Card series commenced on October 3rd and ended only a day later on October 4th. All winning teams swept their opponents with a record of 2-0. The Rangers defeated the Rays, the Twins defeated the Bluejays, the Phillies defeated the Marlins, and the Diamondbacks defeated the Brewers. Eight teams remained to face off in the division series, each fighting for a spot in their league’s conference series. The results are in. For the American League, there will be a face-off between the Texans–the Rangers swept the Orioles and will face the Astros, who defeated the Twins 3-1. In the National League, the Diamondbacks swept the Dodgers and will go against the Phillies, who beat the Braves 3-1. It’s safe to say that the Orioles’, Dodgers’, and Braves’ impressive records did not hold up in the postseason, proving baseball is an entirely different game in October.
Now it’s Conference time. ESPN predicts the Astros to defeat the Rangers and the Phillies to defeat the Diamondbacks. I agree the Phillies will most likely move on to the World Series, but I disagree with the American League prediction. After watching the Rangers sweep through every team in the playoffs, I think that they’ll move on to the final round. Although it would be entertaining to see a repeat of last year and watch the Astros and Phillies battle again, I predict there will be a different matchup: Cory Seagar and the Rangers versus Bryce Harper and the Phillies. This leads me to my World Series prediction. Both teams ended the regular season with the same record: 90-72. Both have also been strong offensively this October. However, one is stronger defensively than the other: the Rangers. With four starting players in the MLB all-stars this year, it’s hard to deny that they have a top-tier defense. A team with players like Corey Seager, Josh Jung, Marcus Semien, and Adolis Garcia is hard to beat. The Phillies didn’t have any starters in the all-stars. For this reason, I bet the Rangers will continue their winning streak and win the World Series, but not without a fight from the red-hot Phillies.
A packed Phillies stadium before one of their playoff games! (Photo: Catherine McGonigle)
Update: Ruby correctly predicted the Rangers winning the World Series, though the team they defeated was not the Phillies but the Diamondbacks.
An Exciting Homecoming Week For Archmere Sports Josie Calder ‘25 and Maura Read ‘25 CO-SPORTS EDITORS ThroughoutArchmere’s Homecoming Week the week students showed their school spirit by dressing up as senior citizens, babies, and tacky tourists. This was not the only way Auks showed their school pride though. This week Archmere’s fall sports teams had their Homecoming games and many students came out to support the Auks on the field and court. To start off the week on Saturday, 10/7, the Volleyball team took on Appoquinimink HS. Unfortunately, the girls lost in a tight, 5-set game that ended 3-2. Luckily, the team worked hard and their luck changed when they beat DMA in straight sets 3-0. This luck continued for the Auks Homecoming game against Conrad, which they won 3-0. This was Archmere’s first Homecoming game of the year, and the excitement from the packed student section could be felt all throughout the gym. After their long break from games, the Field Hockey team began their week ready to put on a strong showing. To start off their week, they took on the Padua Pandas and left with a 4-1 win. With 2 goals from Maura Read, 1 goal each from Kirsten Wenger and Maddie Cowan, and 4 saves from each Goalkeeper, the team left in high spirits. On Thursday, they faced the Newark Charter School Patriots, who had a 9-1 record. With an early thriller goal by Maura Read, the auks were up 1-0 until the last couple minutes of the game where the Patriots scored to tie it up. Unfortunately, the team could not come through in overtime, and they left with a heartbreaking loss. They did not let this get them down because they bounced right back with a clutch 5-0 win
again DMA for their homecoming game. They face MOT Charter and the Charter School of Wilmington this week, and they look to clinch their playoff spot. On the 14th Archmere’s Cross Country team traveled all the way to Manhattan in New York City for the Manhattan Invitational race. Despite the bad weather, the Auks had a great time at the meet. The girls team placed 3rd and the boys team placed 7th. In the varsity girls race, Maddie Priest ‘24 placed 4th, Helen Socorso ‘25 placed 15th, and Alaina Thomas ‘27 placed 18th. In the boys varsity race, Richie Angiullo ‘25 placed 8th. When asked about the race, co-captain of the girls team Helen Socorso ‘25 said that “All of the girls worked really hard, and despite all of the rain and cold temperatures, everyone ran really well.” The Football team took on Mt. Pleasant HS in Archmere’s Homecoming game. The boys played incredibly and won in a blowout, 41-0. Quarterback Miles Kempski ‘24 threw for 2 touchdowns and 136 yards. The rain could not stop the Auks from coming out to support their team and help them obtain a victory over Mt. Pleasant for Homecoming. Last but not least, the Soccer team had a week very similar to Field Hockey as they collected 2 wins and 1 loss by the end of the week. With 2 clutch goals by senior Jason Lotkowski, the team was able to beat rival Tatnall, 2-1. This win was offset by their unfortunate loss against Newark Charter School. They came back stronger than ever for their Homecoming game by beating Woodbridge 7-2, with a hat trick from Karol Diaz ‘24 and 3 other goal scorers. The team has a busy week ahead with games against Smyrna, St. Mark’s, and DMA
Archmere Seniors help lead the pep rally to get students excitied for Homecoming games. (Photo: Archmere Academy’s Instagram page)